Kathmandu, November 3
Andre Russell delivered a match-winning all-round performance as Biratnagar Kings edged Janakpur Bolts by two runs in a thrilling Nepal Premier League (NPL) encounter.
Batting first, Biratnagar posted 174/3 in their allotted 20 overs, with Lokesh Bam, Imran Sheikh and Russell making significant contributions.
Bam scored 50 off 40 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, while Sheikh made 56 off 45 deliveries, including five fours and two sixes. The pair rescued Biratnagar after an early setback, putting together a crucial partnership to take the score past 100.
Russell then provided the late impetus, remaining unbeaten on 52 off just 29 balls. His innings included two fours and five sixes, helping Biratnagar finish with a competitive total at a run rate of 8.70.
Abhisekh Tiwari was the pick of the bowlers for Janakpur, claiming two wickets for 38 runs in four overs.
In reply, Janakpur finished on 172/7, falling just short of the 175-run target despite a spirited batting effort.
Saif Hassan led the chase with an impressive 71 off 48 balls, striking two fours and five sixes. Bishal Shusling contributed 43 off 30 deliveries, while James Neesham added a quickfire 27 off 15 balls, including three sixes.
Janakpur struggled early, losing three wickets for just 30 runs. However, Hassan and Shusling revived the innings with a crucial partnership, taking the score to 106 before Shusling was dismissed.
Neesham’s aggressive batting kept Janakpur in contention, but his dismissal at 162 left the Bolts needing a strong finish. Russell then continued his impressive performance with the ball, taking four wickets for 45 runs in his four overs.
Angelo Mathews also played a key role, claiming two wickets for 25 runs, while Rupesh Singh picked up one wicket.
Russell’s unbeaten half-century and four-wicket haul proved decisive as Biratnagar held their nerve to secure a narrow two-run victory in a closely contested encounter.
